This course is an introduction to the field of Industrial Ecology (IE) as a multidisciplinary effort to evaluate anthropogenic systems, minimizing their negative effect on our planet. The students are taught the methods, tools, and strategies within IE, aimed to recreate our industrial system in such a way that it can be sustainable and in harmony with the rest of the natural ecosystem. To achieve this general objective, the module is divided in three blocks: Block 1 (3 ECTs). Tools and methods within IE. The objectives of this block are: Understand the concepts of IE, its framework as a multidisciplinary area of research based on system theory; resources: environmental goods and services, externalities. Understand how thermodynamics is a conceptual framework for IE, and be able to apply thermodynamics at different scales for system evaluation. Understand Material Flow Analysis (MFA), and be able to apply this tool to different systems, such as a product, process, or region. Understand the concepts of urban metabolism, carbon footprint, including differences in scope, results, and policy implications. Understand both process-based approach, MFA-LCA (or Material Flow Analysis coupled with Life-Cycle Assessment) and EIO-LCA (or Economic Input-Output coupled with Life-Cycle Assessment); apply the fundamentals of these approaches to be used for various analyses (e. g. , GHG, pollution, water, land, toxics, materials use, etc. ) Block 2 (3 ECTs). Eco design and Life Cycle Analysis (LCA). This being one of the most important methods and system analysis of IE, it deserves a block all to itself. The main objectives are: For product and process ecodesign and LCA Understand the concept of ecodesign and LCA Basic theoretical aspects, regulations and legal framework Case studies: ecodesign products and processes Introduction to SimaPro practices. Definition of objectives, functional unit, and inventory. Impact evaluation and improvement analysis. Apply SimaPro software for LCA of sustainability product (solar cooking ) and conventional goods (microwave oven) 1 Ecologia Industrial 2013 - 2014 Block 3 (3 ECTs). Sustainable urban systems. The objectives of this block are: Understand the opportunities of applying IE tools and methods in urban systems. Understand the basic principles of urban metabolism. Learn about the process of urban planning of an econeighbourhood. Apply GaBi software for the LCA of urban infrastructures (pavements, distribution networks, …).